What is an interpretation of the novel 'The Wizard of Oz'?

Answer 1

That the novel 'The Wizard of Oz' is no more and no less than the first successful American fairy tale is the safest and surest interpretation of the original 1900 book edition of 'The Wizard of Oz'. Author Lyman Frank Baum [May 15, 1856-May 6, 1919] left only one indication as to how he wanted the first book in his Royal Histories of Oz series to be interpreted. Specifically, in the book's 'Introduction', Baum describes the fairy tale heritage from other countries as being moralistic in purpose and nightmarish in effects. He explains that he wants his story to be an American spin on the fairy tale genre. He also explains that he's writing solely for the enjoyment and pleasure of children.